The Government of Ghana has expressed strong alarm and condemnation over what it describes as the unilateral and unauthorised military invasion of Venezuela by the United States of America, as well as the reported abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
In a statement issued by the on Sunday, January 4, 2026, the government said it was deeply troubled by reports that the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, January 3, 2026. According to the statement, the developments represent a grave threat to international peace, global stability, and the established norms governing relations between sovereign states.
“The Government of the Republic of Ghana is alarmed at the unilateral and unauthorised invasion of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela by the United States of America,” the statement said, adding that such actions, if confirmed, constitute a clear violation of international law.
Ghana strongly deplored what it described as the unilateral use of force, stressing that the action undermines the Charter and violates the core principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of states. The government emphasised that these principles form the bedrock of the post–Second World War international system and must be respected by all nations, regardless of their size or power.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry noted that it is closely monitoring developments in , warning that any attack on international law, attempts at foreign occupation, or external control of strategic national resources have far-reaching implications beyond the immediate region.
“Such actions threaten the stability of the international order and set dangerous precedents that could erode the foundations of peaceful coexistence among nations,” the statement cautioned.
Particular concern was expressed over comments attributed to , suggesting that the United States would “run” Venezuela until what he described as a “safe, proper and judicious transition” is achieved. The statement also cited remarks indicating that major U.S. oil companies could be invited to operate in Venezuela during such a period.
According to Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, these declarations evoke memories of colonial and imperialist practices that the international community has long sought to reject.
“These declarations are reminiscent of the colonial and imperialist era and should have no place in the modern global order,” the statement said, warning that such rhetoric risks normalising external domination under the guise of political or economic reform.
Ghana reaffirmed its firm commitment to the principle of self-determination, insisting that only the people of Venezuela have the sovereign right to determine their political, economic, and democratic future without external interference.
“The political destiny of Venezuela must be decided by Venezuelans alone, through lawful and democratic means,” the government stressed.
The statement further called for the immediate de-escalation of tensions and demanded the unconditional release of and his wife, .
“The Government of Ghana calls for immediate de-escalation and the release of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife,” the statement added, urging all parties involved to exercise restraint and prioritise dialogue over confrontation.
Ghana also reiterated its long-standing opposition to invasion, occupation, colonialism, apartheid, and all forms of violations of international law. The government said this position is rooted in Ghana’s own historical experience and its commitment to Pan-Africanism, non-alignment, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
“For decades, Ghana has stood firmly against all forms of domination and unlawful intervention,” the statement said. “We remain resolute in upholding these principles in defence of global peace, justice, and sovereignty.”
The government warned that continued escalation in Venezuela could have serious consequences for global energy markets, regional stability in Latin America, and broader international relations. It urged the international community, including multilateral institutions, to take urgent steps to protect international law and prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Ghana’s statement comes amid growing international debate and concern over the unfolding situation in Venezuela, with calls from various quarters for transparency, diplomacy, and adherence to established international norms.
As developments continue, Ghana said it will remain engaged with international partners and closely observe the situation, while advocating for peaceful solutions that respect the will and sovereignty of the Venezuelan people.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry concluded by reaffirming Ghana’s belief that sustainable peace can only be achieved through dialogue, mutual respect, and strict adherence to international law, rather than through force or coercion.
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